Silversea Luxury Cruises To PULA

Today an industrial port town and Istria's chief administrative center (pop. 58,000), as well as a major tourist destination, Pula became a Roman colony in the 1st century BC. This came about a century after the decisive defeat by the Romans, in 177 BC, of the nearby Histrian stronghold of Nesactium, prompting the Histrian king Epulon to plunge a sword into his chest lest he fall into the hands of the victors, who indeed conquered all of Istria. View more

Remains from Pula's ancient past have survived up to the present day: as you drive in on the coastal route toward its choice setting on a bay near the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, the monumental Roman amphitheater blocks out the sky on your left. Under Venetian rule (1331–1797), Pula was architecturally neglected, even substantially dismantled. Many structures from the Roman era were pulled down, and stones and columns were carted off across the sea to Italy to be used for new buildings there. Pula's second great period of development took place in the late 19th century, under the Habsburgs, when it served as the chief base for the Imperial Austro-Hungarian Navy. Today it's as much working city as tourist town, where Roman ruins and Austro-Hungarian architecture serve as backdrop for the bustle of everyday life amid a bit of communist-era soot and socialist realism, too. James Joyce lived here for a short time, in 1904–05, before fleeing what he dismissed as a cultural backwater for Trieste. What's more, there are some outstanding restaurants and a number of pleasant family-run hotels, not to mention the nearby resort area of Verudela, where seaside tourism thrives in all its soothing, sunny sameness.

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.

Excursions in PULA

Explore the ancient beauty and historical landmarks of one of the oldest towns in Europe during this memorable, half-day visit to Pula.

Depart the pier for the walking tour of Pula. According to myth, Jason and Medea founded Pula, formerly known as 'Polai', on the southernmost part of the Istrian Peninsula. Later, the Romans changed it into a resort town for the 'pleasure of the rich'.

Pula Walking Tour

Upon arrival, your awaiting guide takes you on a walking tour of Pula, and offers a unique insight into the 3,000-year-old history of one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city is best known for its many surviving ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is its 1st-century amphitheatre. Locally-known as the 'Arena', it is the sixth-largest amphitheatre in the world. This ancient structure's appearance belies its age and it is still used today for summer film festivals.

Your walking tour continues with visits to other notable and well-preserved ancient Roman structures, including the Sergius Arch and the temple to the god Apollo, built in honour of the 1st-century Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Along the way, see the Roman city gates and walls and a Byzantine chapel.

City Market

Next, proceed to the colourful city market. This recently-renovated marketplace reflects the Austro-Hungarian heritage of the residents and attracts people from the nearby villages. Your visit concludes with some free time to browse the shops at your leisure and then return to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over cobblestones and uneven ground and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Explore the ancient beauty and historical landmarks of one of the oldest towns in Europe during this memorable, half-day visit to Pula.

Depart the pier for the walking tour of Pula. According to myth, Jason and Medea founded Pula, formerly known as 'Polai', on the southernmost part of the Istrian Peninsula. Later, the Romans changed it into a resort town for the 'pleasure of the rich'.

Pula Walking Tour

Upon arrival, your awaiting guide takes you on a walking tour of Pula, and offers a unique insight into the 3,000-year-old history of one of the oldest towns in Europe. The city is best known for its many surviving ancient Roman buildings, the most famous of which is its 1st-century amphitheatre. Locally-known as the 'Arena', it is the sixth-largest amphitheatre in the world. This ancient structure's appearance belies its age and it is still used today for summer film festivals.

Your walking tour continues with visits to other notable and well-preserved ancient Roman structures, including the Sergius Arch and the temple to the god Apollo, built in honour of the 1st-century Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Along the way, see the Roman city gates and walls and a Byzantine chapel.

City Market

Next, proceed to the colourful city market. This recently-renovated marketplace reflects the Austro-Hungarian heritage of the residents and attracts people from the nearby villages. Your visit concludes with some free time to browse the shops at your leisure and then return to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times over cobblestones and uneven ground and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. A minimum number of guests per guide is required to operate this programme.

Escape to the beautiful archipelago of islands that makes up the Brijuni National Park during this private, half-day nature tour.

Depart the pier for a short, approximately 15-minute drive to the town of Fazana where guests will enjoy a speedboat transfer to the park.

Brijuni National Park

Nearly two miles off the coast of Pula, the park covers an area of 736 hectares / 2.9 square miles, with picturesque coves dotting the coastline. A microclimate here allows the flourishing of both native and foreign flora and fauna, which also supports 150 species of bird that inhabit these protected lands. Visitors have been coming here for millennia, and there are many archaeological sites on the islands that show humans have lived on the islands since the Neolithic age.

Guests will embark their private golf cart, complete with a driver and a guide, for a guided tour through the safari park, with approximately 2.5 hours to admire the plants and animals. Guests will also pass the ruins of Byzantine fortifications and a Roman summer villa dating from the first century AD. After the tour, some free time is allotted on the island before taking a speed boat transfer back to Fazana Village and your awaiting mini-bus for the drive back to Pula.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of activity, however many steps and manoeuvres are involved during the transfers between vehicles: mini-bus, speedboat and golf cart vehicle. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection. This tour is priced per golf cart with a capacity of up to 6 guests; only one person in your party needs to book this programme and the cost of this tour may be split between suites on board the ship. Operation of this tour is dependent upon favourable weather conditions, and it may be cancelled on short notice.

Indulge your senses with the picturesque beauty, romance, and flavours of the Istrian Peninsula during a memorable visit to this Medieval enclave.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximate one-hour drive to Motovun.

Motovun

Town of Motovun is situated at the top of the hill and is only accessible by local shuttle bus service (5 minutes ride - not exclusive to Silversea Cruises), which operates regularly. Unfortunately this is the only option as all other buses are not allowed to drive up the hill to the town for safety reasons.

An astonishing architectural landmark, this hilltop town has retained its medieval feel along its narrow streets and within its well-preserved, intact town walls. Many claim that Motovun is the most beautiful town in all of Istria. Upon arrival, take a walking tour past the Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance-style buildings en route to the main square, which is dominated by the 13-century belfry of St. Stephen's Church. See the lions as they stand guard over the town gates, and take in splendid views of the Mirna river valley below. Some free time is then made available to explore the village and browse the shops at your leisure.

Livade and Truffle Dining Experience

Next, re-board your coach for the scenic, downhill drive to the village of Livade. Take in the flavours of one of the most well-known villages on the Istria Peninsula, renowned for its truffles that have become a part of the local cuisine. Here you will partake in a set-menu lunch that features these famous and valuable truffles along with various wines and other dishes from the region.

After lunch, re-board your coach for a drive of approximately 90 minutes through the rolling hills of Istria en route to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, approximately 750 m / 0.5 miles, over occasionally steep and uneven surfaces with approximately 20 stairs to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection. The season of the white truffle starts in October and lasts until the end of January. The season of the black truffle starts in May and lasts until November.

Depart the pier for the approximately 90-minute drive to the town of Groznjan.

Groznjan

Your first stop will be at a small Istrian town named Groznjan, or Grisignana as the Italians originally called it. It is a town of great cultural significance not only in Croatia but also internationally, due to their renowned artist community that transforms the city during the summer. During these months, Groznjan lives and breathes art as the labyrinth of its little streets become an open stage. After the guided tour, guests will have some free time to dive into the sounds and scents of Groznjan.

Sparkling Wine Tasting

Re-board the coach and continue toward the village of Persurici in order to visit one of the largest producers of natural sparkling wine in Croatia. Misal Winery is a family-owned business following their family's centuries-old methods of producing sparkling wines. Visit the winery, find out how sparkling wine is produced, and learn interesting facts about the wine including differences between sorts and how to match it to certain foods. Guests will also be given the opportunity to sample five of the Misal Winery's sparkling wines.

After the wine tasting, re-board the coach for the approximately 45 minute transfer back to Pula.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, approximately 650 m / 0.4 miles, over occasionally steep and uneven surfaces with approximately 20 stairs to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection.

Discover the natural landscapes of Istria on bicycle during this full-day active tour. After a walking tour in Groznjan, guests will be transported deeper into the heart of the Istrian Peninsula for a ride along one of the best and most scenic biking trails in Croatia.

Groznjan

Your first stop will be at a small Istrian town named Groznjan, or Grisignana as the Italians originally called it. It is a town of great cultural significance not only in Croatia but also internationally, due to their renowned artist community that that transforms the city during the summer. During these months, Groznjan lives and breathes art as the labyrinth of its little streets become an open stage. After the guided tour guests will have some free time to dive into the sounds and scents of Groznjan.

Parenzana Biking Trail

The Parenzana biking trail got its name from the famous railroad that connected Istria with the heartland of Austria-Hungary with Trieste in Italy. The railroad brought great prosperity to the local inhabitants and is still nostalgically admired by them today. The Parenzana Bike Trail was created to commemorate the extraordinary significance of this landmark and is also known today as the Trail of Health and Friendship because it connects three countries - Italy, Slovenia and Croatia.

Parenzana's route passes through the tame landscape of Istria which conceals a wealth of natural scenes. It is precisely through this famous railroad that many nature lovers have gotten to know the uniqueness and beauty of Istria, Croatia. The diversity of plant and wildlife in the lush forests will take you back to another time and passages cut into massive rocks with deep chasms will remind you of nature's magnificence.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity, with approximately 400 m / 0.25 miles, over occasionally steep and uneven surfaces with approximately 20 stairs to negotiate. Additionally, this tour involves an extensive amount of cycling and guests must be in proper condition in order to maintain the pace of the group. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or for those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes and sun protection.

Discover the charm of Istria and enjoy a taste of this region's famous truffles during this half-day sight-seeing and tasting experience. After a walking tour in Motovun, guests will be transported to a local family's farmhouse to learn about, taste, and even hunt for truffles.

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Motovun.

Motovun

The town of Motovun is situated at the top of the hill and is only accessible by local shuttle bus service (5 minutes ride - not exclusive to Silversea Cruises), which operates regularly. Unfortunately this is the only option as all other buses are not allowed to drive up the hill to the town for safety reasons.

An astonishing architectural landmark, this hilltop town has retained its Medieval feel along its narrow streets, and within its well-preserved, intact town walls. Many claim that Motovun is the most beautiful town in all of Istria. Upon arrival, take a walking tour past the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings en route to the main square, which is dominated by the 13-century belfry of St. Stephen's Church. See the lions as they stand guard over the town gates, and take in splendid views of the Mirna river valley below. Some free time is then made available to explore the village and browse the shops at your leisure.

Truffle Tasting and Hunt

Leaving Motovun by bus, guests will soon arrive at the village of Paladini, where the Karlic Family and their team of dogs will greet you at their farm. Your hosts will give an introduction to the process and history of truffle production in Istria and within their family. Guests will taste delicious truffle-infused products all prepared by the family, including Istrian cheese, honey, olive oil, and more. The highlight of the tasting is a live, interactive presentation of making the famous Istrian "fritaja," scrambled eggs with truffles, when you will also have the opportunity to join in the cooking!

Next, your hosts will take you on a truffle hunt in their own woods where they grow and harvest black truffles. All the truffles are practically undetectable to humans; however thanks to their strong scent and of course the well-trained dogs, guests will be able to experience the thrill of finding this elusive and valuable delicacy.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking, at times on inclines, and over uneven and cobblestone surfaces. The order of tour sequence may vary. Guests are advised to wear seasonal clothing, flat, walking shoes (suitable for walking through natural and rugged terrains) and sun protection. The season of the white truffle starts in October and lasts until the end of January. The season of the black truffle starts in May and lasts until November.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your full-day (8 Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Pula at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area’s highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 6 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this program. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

BRINDISI

CHANIA (Crete)

DUBROVNIK

RHODES ISLAND

SANTORINI

VENICE

An Introduction to Silversea Cruises

The romance of the seas, small ship sizes and intimate atmosphere, Silversea has long been a leader in the ultra-luxury market. Travelling to both iconic and secluded ports, Silversea’s award-winning itineraries inspire wanderlust and exploration. With over 900 destinations, longer port stays and more late-night departures than ever before, even the savviest traveler will find something new. A butler for every suite, a complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences, all-inclusive exquisite dining, award-winning onboard entertainment and an unparalleled space to guest ratio all contribute to the Silversea experience. Not forgetting our famed Italian hospitality, where new faces become old friends. Bienvenuti a bordo.